James Gunn has addressed rumors regarding the current status of the screenplay for the upcoming DC Universe Batman project, The Brave and the Bold. Despite speculation about the script’s completion and Warner Bros.’ intentions for a 2028 release, Gunn confirmed that the screenplay is still being developed and production is not yet imminent, reflecting a patient approach to the film’s progress within the broader DC Universe.
James Gunn Responds to Script Completion Rumors
Amid rising anticipation for next year’s The Batman Part II, which recently cast Scarlett Johansson and Sebastian Stan, the spotlight has also fallen on The Brave and the Bold. This new live-action Batman film is set to exist within the main DC Universe canon, distinct from Matt Reeves’ Batman Epic Crime Saga, which is maintained as a separate continuity. Fans and industry watchers have been curious as DC Studios attempts to manage two simultaneous Batman film series, an uncommon move for such a major superhero.
When a fan inquired on Threads about reports claiming The Brave and the Bold script was finished and the film targeted for release in 2028, James Gunn’s reply was succinct: “Fiction, sorry. Screenplay isn’t finished.” He did not elaborate on the script’s progress or indicate how close it might be to completion, leaving the timeline open-ended.
Understanding the Implications for The Brave and the Bold
Last summer, coinciding with the theatrical debut of the new Superman film, Gunn had acknowledged that work was underway on The Brave and the Bold script. Since assuming co-head duties at DC Studios, Gunn has consistently emphasized that no DC project will enter production until its screenplay is fully developed and meets his approval. The recent update further confirms that this project remains a work in progress.
Although Gunn’s response lacks specific details, it suggests that the screenplay could be nearing completion or may still require substantial rewriting before moving forward. Thus, The Brave and the Bold is not yet poised to enter pre-production phases such as casting, reinforcing that patience is a key element in its development process.
Cautious Approach to Batman’s DCU Role
Batman’s significance within DC’s mythology ensures that the character will remain an essential part of the DC Universe’s unfolding narrative. However, Gunn has made clear that there is no urgency to release The Brave and the Bold anytime soon. One practical reason is the existence of Matt Reeves’ Batman Epic Crime Saga, which continues to run separately and has a dedicated audience.
Gunn has openly stated that he wants to avoid releasing The Brave and the Bold during the same calendar year as The Batman Part II, aiming to prevent confusion among audiences regarding the two distinct Batman narratives. This underscores an ongoing challenge for the studio in managing multiple film continuities centered on the same legendary character.
Given that Reeves’ series remains successful and ongoing, releasing a new Batman film within the tightly controlled DCU too soon could risk diluting or fragmenting viewership. Gunn’s deliberate pace allows the studio to ensure the integrity of both storylines while upholding the quality fans expect.
Potential Release Dates and Future Challenges
Speculation places the earliest possible release for The Brave and the Bold around 2028, a window that would help avoid conflicts with The Batman Part II. However, this timeline is uncertain, partly because Reeves is reportedly planning a third Batman installment. The completion and release timing of that trilogy could influence DC Studios’ scheduling, as Gunn likely wants to prevent any direct competition between the two Batman film series.
While Gunn has expressed interest in exploring Elseworlds stories—alternate takes on familiar characters—he seems inclined to defer The Brave and the Bold until after Reeves concludes his Batman trilogy. Fans hope that any further delays will be shorter than those experienced by The Batman Part II, which encountered multiple setbacks during production.
Expanding the DC Universe Beyond Batman
For now, DC fans will have to wait to see David Corenswet’s Superman interact with Batman in the DCU. The universe is still in its early stages and can tolerate a cautious rollout of major characters. Several other projects are progressing, including the Lanterns TV series and James Gunn’s upcoming film Man of Tomorrow.
This fall’s release of Clayface will also offer audiences a glimpse of Gotham City within the DCU, expanding the franchise’s world-building even if Batman himself remains absent for the moment. These developments highlight DC Studios’ broader strategy of steady growth and diversification as the DC Universe is gradually shaped under Gunn’s leadership.
“James Gunn Reveals Three Things the New DCU Batman Will Have (And What Fans Think They Want)”
—James Gunn
